Judge Rules to Reinstate AmeriCorps Funding Amid Legal Battle with Trump Administration
In a significant ruling, U.S. District Judge Deborah L. Boardman ordered the Trump administration to restore hundreds of millions of dollars in AmeriCorps grant funding and reinstate thousands of service workers across approximately two dozen states. The ruling, delivered on Thursday, includes a temporary block against the cancellation of grants and early discharge of corps members, specifically benefiting states that filed a lawsuit against the administration in April.
The federal lawsuit, initiated by Democratic state officials nationwide, alleges that the administration’s cost-cutting initiatives via the Department of Government Efficiency violated legal protocols by prematurely terminating grants funded through the AmeriCorps State and National program, which received $557 million in approved funding this year.
Judge Boardman mandated the reinstatement of all AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps members currently discharged, provided they are willing to return. However, she permitted the agency to continue with its plan to reduce personnel, denying the states’ appeal to restore most staff members placed on administrative leave since April. AmeriCorps employs more than 500 full-time federal workers, operating with a budget of nearly $1 billion.
The agency has distributed over $177 million in formula-based grants and $370 million in competitive grants that assist nearly 35,000 corps members statewide. The abrupt termination notices sent to grantees in April were criticized for failing to offer the legally mandated notice and comment period, potentially jeopardizing essential services for vulnerable populations.
While AmeriCorps has faced criticism for inefficiencies, its bipartisan support highlights the significant role it plays in community service. The lawsuit encompasses states including Maryland, California, and New Jersey, reflecting widespread concern over the administration’s funding decisions.
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